10 Essential Tips for Selling Your Home Quickly and Profitably

Selling a home is a significant step, and preparing your property in advance can make a substantial difference in both the speed and success of the sale. A well-maintained and properly documented home not only attracts more interest but can also prevent delays and complications during the conveyancing process.

At Survey Plus, we specialise in pre-sale property assessments, helping homeowners identify potential issues before they become deal-breakers. This guide outlines the key steps you should take to ensure your property is presented at its best and fully compliant with all relevant regulations.

1. Verify Planning Compliance Prior to Listing Your Property

One critical yet often overlooked aspect of selling a property is planning compliance. Unauthorized extensions, missing compliance certificates, or planning breaches can cause delays or even derail a sale if flagged during conveyancing.

Why is it Important to Conduct a Planning Compliance Check?

At Survey Plus, we provide Planning Compliance Checks to help sellers identify potential issues before they reach the buyer’s solicitor, ensuring a smoother transaction.

2. Septic Tank Compliance – An Essential Requirement for Rural Properties

If your property has a septic tank system, it must comply with EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines. Many buyers will be hesitant to proceed if a system is outdated or non-compliant due to potential upgrade costs.

A septic tank compliance inspection should:

✔ Verify compliance with EPA and local authority regulations.

✔ Identify any leaks, poor percolation, or contamination risks.

✔ Confirm whether desludging and maintenance have been carried out as required.

✔ Provide documentation of maintenance and compliance to your solicitor.

Survey Plus can arrange septic tank inspections to ensure your system is compliant before listing, avoiding delays or costly last-minute negotiations.

3. Resolve Structural Problems Before Buyers Voice Concerns

Structural integrity is a top concern for buyers. Minor defects can often be misinterpreted as serious problems, so it’s best to address them in advance.

• Inspect for Cracks: Check internal and external walls, particularly around windows, doors, and ceilings. Settlement cracks are common, but significant movement could indicate structural issues.

• Check the Roof: Inspect for missing tiles, damaged ridge or hip tiles, and signs of water ingress. Addressing minor roofing defects before listing can prevent buyers from demanding price reductions.

• Survey Plus Services: We provide pre-sale structural surveys, helping homeowners identify and resolve potential concerns, ensuring confidence for both sellers and buyers.

  
  

4. Look for Dampness and Water Stains

Damp and moisture issues are among the biggest red flags for potential buyers. Even minor water stains can create doubts about hidden damage.

• Damp Checks: Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors—especially in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens—for any signs of moisture or discoloration. Identifying the cause and implementing appropriate repairs will mitigate buyer concerns.

• Repair Leaks: Even small drips under sinks or around appliances can raise questions about potential plumbing issues. Ensure all plumbing fixtures are in good working order.

• Survey Plus Services: Our dampness assessments detect hidden moisture problems, ensuring your home is free of damp-related concerns that could impact the sale.

  
  

5. Review Plumbing and Heating Systems

A property’s essential services—plumbing and heating—must be in good working condition to reassure buyers.

• Boiler and Radiators: Ensure your heating system is fully operational and has been recently serviced. A well-maintained boiler with service documentation adds credibility.

• Check Pipes and Fittings: Look for corrosion, rust, or leaks around exposed pipes and radiators.

• Survey Plus Services: Our M&E (Mechanical & Electrical) condition surveys assess plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, helping sellers provide buyers with confidence in the property’s functionality.

  
  

6. Improve Energy Efficiency to Enhance Marketability

With energy costs rising, buyers are prioritizing energy efficiency. Simple upgrades can make your home more appealing.

• Draft-Proofing and Insulation: Ensure doors and windows close properly without drafts. If insulation is insufficient, minor upgrades can improve your Building Energy Rating (BER).

• Appliance Maintenance: Keep heating and ventilation systems in top condition. Providing recent servicing certificates can further reassure buyers.

• Survey Plus Services: Our BER assessments provide an official energy rating, giving your home a competitive edge in the market.

  
  

7. Boost Curb Appeal – First Impressions Matter

The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, and a well-maintained façade can significantly impact their perception.

• Garden and Walkways: Trim bushes, clear debris, and ensure paths and driveways are in good condition.

• Boundary Walls and Fencing: Loose fencing, damaged boundary markers, or unstable gates should be repaired.

• Survey Plus Services: Our property condition reports highlight minor external defects, helping you make a positive first impression.

  
  

8. Gather Documentation – Buyers Appreciate Transparency

Having a well-documented record of maintenance, upgrades, and repairs can instill confidence in buyers and their solicitors.

• Receipts and Warranties: Keep records of recent work on roofing, plumbing, insulation, or appliances.

• Energy Efficiency Upgrades: If you've installed double-glazed windows, insulation, or solar panels, highlight these improvements and provide relevant certification.

  
  

• Survey Plus vendor surveys provide a professional report on your home’s condition, reducing buyer uncertainty and streamlining negotiations.

  
  

Final Touches – Presentation Matters

Before listing your property, small improvements can make a significant difference:

✔ A Fresh Coat of Paint: Neutral tones create a clean, inviting look.

✔ Declutter and Clean: A tidy home appears more spacious and well-maintained.

✔ Let in Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to maximize brightness.

Ensure a Smooth Sale with Survey Plus

A well-prepared home doesn’t just attract buyers—it sells faster and often at a better price. At Survey Plus, we offer pre-sale inspections, structural surveys, planning compliance checks, and damp assessments to help homeowners identify and address any issues before they go to market.

Our reports provide buyers with confidence, reducing the risk of last-minute complications and ensuring a smooth, efficient sale process.

Thinking of selling? Contact Survey Plus today to arrange a professional property assessment and set yourself up for success!